Bill Gates to visit UAE next month

Microsoft has confirmed that chairman Bill Gates will visit the UAE for the first time next month, for the Microsoft Government Leaders Forum (GLF) Arabia 2008.

Gates will attend GLF, which is being held in Abu Dhabi on 27th and 28th January, as well as attending several meetings in Dubai.

The GLF is being held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, with Her Excellency Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Economy confirmed as a speaker.

GLF Arabia is part of a global series of top level events hosted by Microsoft, which are intended to encourage government leaders to adopt technology to drive social and economic change. The event aims to attract over 200 government and business leaders, for a series of keynotes, discussion forums and panel discussions on the theme of ‘Accelerating Arab Competitiveness'.

Microsoft could not confirm whether Gates will announce any new initiatives for the Middle East. Other speakers have yet to be confirmed.